August 28, 2007

Care Pairs

Amidst all the accoutrements of American life, one can start to think that living comfortably requires a backseat DVD player and a designer vacuum cleaner. Remember: In some parts of the world, living comfortably just means having a roof over your head.

A new brand called Toms strikes a balance between the urge to purchase cool new stuff and our desire to help those without such luxuries. When you buy a pair of Tiny Toms shoes for tykes, the company will deliver a pair directly to a child in need – a simple way of making his or her world seem a little more welcoming.

And these aren't just your run-of-the-mill kids' kicks. They're inspired by designer (and former "Amazing Race" contestant) Blake Mycoskie's travels to South America, based on the simple lightweight shoes called "alpargatas" that he saw throughout Argentina. Made of vibrant fabric in solids and bold patterns, they're easy to slip on but sturdy enough to withstand heavy play.

Toms have already become hot sellers at shops like Fred Segal and Scoop. Now kids can show off the trend en route to the playground – and do a good deed along the way.

Available online at tomsshoes.com.

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